The Dog Whipper's Pew at St Margaret's Church, Wrenbury

Image: © Brian Deegan Taken: 25 Apr 2026

The Dog Whipper's Pew at St Margaret's Church in Wrenbury is a highly unusual and rare surviving piece of church furniture that dates back to a time when animals were a common disruption during religious services. Located nearest the main door of the church, the pew was specifically reserved for the parish "dog whipper." Its placement near the entrance was strategic, allowing the official to quickly intercept any stray animals attempting to enter the building or to immediately eject those causing a disturbance without disrupting the rest of the congregation. Between the 16th and 19th centuries, it was common for household dogs to follow their owners to church, and stray dogs often gathered around the doors. This frequently led to fights, loud barking, or dogs attempting to approach the altar and the communion bread. To maintain order, many parishes paid an official dog whipper to patrol the grounds. The dog whipper was traditionally equipped with two main items: A Whip: Typically about three feet long, used as a visual deterrent, to break up dog fights, or to physically drive unruly dogs away from the church. Dog Tongs: Long wooden or iron tongs designed to clasp a disruptive or aggressive dog safely by the neck. This allowed the official to remove the animal without getting bitten. The last holder of the post was Thomas Vaughan who died in 1879 and is buried in the churchyard.

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